It makes up two-thirds ofall diesel-engined 3 Series sold in the UK, as we take it into our homes as our very own dream machine.

It is sporty, prestigious and totally reliable. What more could we ask for?

Given a 320d M Sport, I was about to find out what makes this car so popular.

From the outside, there is no question that the smooth clean sporty lines of the 3 Series make it delightfully desirable and safety goes without saying. This kid is packed with features designed to keep you alive.

It has a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine that fairly pops you out along the motorway and the statistics show its vitality.

It has a top speed of 146mph and can blast from 0-62mph in just 7.5 seconds.

All this with an average of 62.8mpg means you cannot complain, but those stats mean nothing if it is not an enjoyable ride.

The first indications are very positive, beginning with a very satisfying thrum from the engine.

As the needle rises, this little baby just loves showing off and she’s a real smoothie, eating up the miles with what seems like minimum effort.

The 320d M Sport comes with comfort, eco, sports and sports+ modes for every eventuality, and for the most part drivers will find the comfort mode good enough.

Pop her into sports mode and just watch that nose lift up as she growls past the rest of the traffic.

BMW 3 Series 320d M Sport

If you are one of those rare BMW green drivers then it is eco mode for you, and see how well you save the pounds and the fuel.

The 320d with the M Sport trim is at its best cruising along in the outside lane, but even on Scotland’s country roads it holds its own as you have fun around the bends.

It brakes well and the six-speed gear box means that you never hear it squealing in protest.

It is comfortable and the sat-nav and infotainment system is first class.

What I loved about this car was that it was small enough to throw about and yet big enough to rely upon in the wet and in tricky situations.

Its size also means that it is not too bad to park. I got it in and out of some tight spaces.

This car is simply very good and highly efficient — traits that have endeared us Brits to German cars.

It is refined yet game for anything — no challenge is too big as it powers along.

It may not be the biggest of BMW models but it is all heart and, for anyone who gives it a good home, it will repay you in spades.